The air compressor is an essential piece of equipment when air is used for diving.
Compressors used to supply air to the diver shall be equipped with a volume tank with:
(1) a check valve on the inlet side
(2) a pressure gauge
(3) a relief valve
(4) a drain valve.
Air compressor intakes shall be located away from areas containing exhaust or other contaminants.
The output of air compressor systems shall be tested for air purity every 6 months by means of samples taken at the connection to the distribution system. Non-oil lubricated compressors need not be tested for oil mist.
Contaminant
Allowable Range
carbon monoxide (CO)
<= 20 parts per million
carbon dioxide (CO2)
<= 1,000 parts perr million
oil mist
<= 5 mg per cubic meter
noxious or pronounced odor
none
There should be a logging system for recording work performed on the compressor:
(1) each modification, repair, test, calibration or maintenance
(2) date
(3) nature of work performed
(4) name or initials of the person performing the work.
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